Burg Klingenstein, Styria

Burg Klingenstein is a medieval castle ruins situated on a wooded mountain ridge near Maria Lankowitz. The visible remnants include walls and building foundations spread across the site, positioned among steep slopes with streams flowing through the valleys below.

The castle was built in the second half of the 15th century to protect trade routes from Voitsberg over the Gaberl pass to upper Murtal. The Saurau family controlled the site during the 16th century until a fire caused severe damage, after which it was permanently abandoned.

The name likely derives from Middle High German 'Klingen' referring to gorges or valleys, reflecting the castle's location. Today visitors encounter the ruins set within their natural landscape, where the wooded slopes and ridges reveal how the site was chosen for its defensive position.

The site sits on a mountain ridge with steep slopes and rough terrain that requires sturdy footwear. Visitors should be prepared for uneven ground and changing elevation, especially after rain when paths may become slippery.

The ruins underwent restoration in the early 1980s under the initiative of mayor Hubert Stiefmann, sparking scholarly debates about authentic reconstruction methods. This preservation work prevented further deterioration and opened the site for public access.